CompostCon

When: Sat., Jan. 25, 10 a.m.-5 p.m. 2014Price: $5-$20

An estimated 40 percent of the American food supply is wasted every year, creating greenhouse gas emissions, blocking up our landfills, and costing us $165 billion annually. So while composting isn’t mandatory for East Bay residents, it’s clearly a good idea to do so. On that note, the first ever CompostCon, held at the Oakland Convention Center (550 10th St.) on Saturday, will teach you everything you’ve wanted to know about composting, and more: Workshops for kids and adults will touch on topics such as the uses of compost, edible gardens and urban gardening, reducing food waste, and sustainable landscaping practices using drought-friendly plants. Humboldt County bluegrass band the Compost Mountain Boys will supply tunes throughout the day, and a contest will award attendees in the best garden-, compost-, or food-related costume.